What’s your name and title at Smithsonian Channel- How long you have worked here?
Andrea Michnik- Smithsonian Channel Blogger. I have worked for SC since this project started in April of 2008.
Give a few sentences about your background…How did you get to SC?
I am from Buffalo, NY and moved to Washington, DC in December of 2007 after I received my Master’s in Integrated Marketing Communications from St. Bonaventure University. A former professor of mine heard about the opportunity through a colleague and thought it would be something I’d enjoy since I am really interested in “new media” and want to learn more about it. I submitted my resume for the position and I guess they liked my personality enough at the interviews that they hired me as a blogger! This is my first experience working in the TV business and blogging, but I am so excited to learn about this field and become Smithsonian Channel’s “voice.”
What’s the coolest thing you’ve done in your career or life (something you love telling people about because it’s exciting or it’s something you never thought you’d get to do)?
I took an international marketing class in China during the summer of 2007. We visited Shanghai, Xi’ian and Beijing. Walking the Great Wall and seeing Tiananmen Square were both such a breathtaking experience.
What’s the hardest part of your job?
Learning as I go. Since I am new to the team and not physically located in the office with either the NYC or DC team, keeping up on what’s going on is a challenge. (That means if you know something, tell me too!)
Talk about being a working parent… especially in this industry. How do you balance?
I have a kitten- does that count?
If you were stuck on an island and could take 3 things, what would they be?
1. A notebook with endless pages
2. A box of black flair pens
3. One of those huge books that is a collection of many novels all in one
What are some of your hobbies, skills and interests?
I have been a dancer for twenty-one years so it’s more a lifestyle than a hobby now! I love to write and learn. I enjoy playing with Adobe Creative Suite and teaching myself about graphic design. I also have a slight obsession with words.
What is your favorite travel destination and why?
The Outer Banks, North Carolina. It’s a family vacation spot I’ve been going to since I was thirteen. I hope someday I can continue the tradition.
What’s currently on your iPod?
Umm, I have no idea. I haven’t listened to it in about 6 months- But I am reading Harry Potter and Eat, Pray Love… at the same time.
Why do you work at SC?
I believe in their goals and vision for the future of the channel. When I was a little girl we used to get Smithsonian Magazine and I would read every single article- I was such a nerd! So it’s kind of like my dad’s dream come true to see his daughter working at the world-renowned (insert drumroll and flashing lights here) Smithsonian Institution!
Give me a unique fact about yourself.
I was born on the 4th of July. I honestly thought the fireworks were just for me until I was 6 years old.
If they made a movie about your life, who would you want to play you?
I have no idea. I can never answer this question. I always get people coming up to me and asking though “Have we met before?” or “You know, you look just like my friend/grandaughter/brother’s girlfriend” and I always say “Yea, I get that a lot. I’m like the generic blond girl next door.”
Finish the following statement: “I really crack up when….”
Someone says a line from one of my favorite movies, Christmas Vacation.
